Best Corded Drill – Detailed Reviews of Top Products

For years now, home makeover has been one of my hobbies. I work not only in my house but also help several friends make some adjustments in their spaces. With this in mind, I know what goes into identifying the best corded drill, which is one of the most essential home tools.

Whether you’re looking to bore holes when doing your home makeover, tighten or loosen screws or even mix substances, an excellent corded power drill is a piece of equipment you cannot do without.

This article features detailed reviews of top-corded drill models, including their design specifications, advantages, and disadvantages. Also, there are included corded hammer drill reviews that highlight the leading models of hammer drills, perfectly crafted for demanding tasks.

Product
My Top Pick
PORTER-CABLE Corded Drill, Variable...
Best Premium
BOSCH 11255VSR Bulldog Xtreme 8 Amp 1...
BLACK+DECKER Electric Drill, 3/8-Inch,...
Prime
-
-
-
Pros
With the keyless chuck build, switching bits for diverse uses is more comfortable and efficient
It has an auto bit locking functionality for enhanced safety and stability when working
The chuck has an efficient bit gripping mechanism that makes replacement of bits faster and easier
My Top Pick
Product
PORTER-CABLE Corded Drill, Variable...
Price
Prime
-
Pros
With the keyless chuck build, switching bits for diverse uses is more comfortable and efficient
Best Premium
Product
BOSCH 11255VSR Bulldog Xtreme 8 Amp 1...
Prime
-
Pros
It has an auto bit locking functionality for enhanced safety and stability when working
Product
BLACK+DECKER Electric Drill, 3/8-Inch,...
Prime
-
Pros
The chuck has an efficient bit gripping mechanism that makes replacement of bits faster and easier

Top 11 Best Corded Drills Reviewed

Before going through the corded drill reviews, it is essential to understand what features make a specific corded electric drill better than the other types. This will also help you get an answer to your corded or cordless drill dilemma. First, your drill of choice should be characterized by tough performance. When time and excellence are of the essence, it’s better to go for a robust piece of equipment that’s worth your trust as far as performance is concerned.

These features are another vital consideration. For example, some drills are driven by stronger motors than others. This makes them more appropriate for heavy tasks such as making holes on steel surfaces. Also, a drill with a keyless chuck is more convenient, especially when you need to regularly change your bits for different applications. The variable speed is another critical factor that contributes to the power of the drill.

  1. LACK+DECKER 3/8-Inch 4 AMP
  2. DEWALT 8.0-Amp, 3/8-Inch
  3. BLACK DECKER 5.2-Amp, 3/8-Inch
  4. DEWALT Pistol-Grip, 1/2-Inch, 10-Amp
  5. Bosch 11255VSR Bulldog Xtreme
  6. SKIL 6445-04 7.0 Amp 1/2 Inch
  7. PORTER-CABLE 6-Amp, 3/8-Inch
  8. Bosch 1006VSR 3/8-Inch
  9. GALAX PRO 5 Amp
  10. Meterk 7.0 Amp 1/2 Inch
  11. TACKLIFE 1/2-Inch

Drills with high variable speed are more powerful than those with low. These are among the factors taken into consideration when shortlisting the following reviewed tools. Let’s have a look at the 11 best corded drills in the market:

1. LACK+DECKER 3/8-Inch 4 AMP Electric Drill

Black & Decker is a top-ranking brand famous for its heavy-duty power equipment. One of the most reliable drills you can go for is this Black & Decker corded drill. The tool has a robust chuck that has a strong, bit gripping mechanism for better stability. Also, it is much easier to alternate bits as the removal process is not rigorous as with keyed chucks.

It has a considerably robust four amperes motor that makes the drill equal to the task of handling some heavy-duty applications. It has a convenient handle design that is placed centrally to provide the perfect balance for accurate working.

Electric drill BLACK+DECKER on girl hands

Also, its lightweight build makes it an excellent tool for extended usage without fatigue. However, considering that it has a 3/8-inch chuck, this drill might not be suitable for making large holes. Nonetheless, it is a dependable tool that I would recommend any time.

Positives:

  • The chuck has an efficient bit gripping mechanism that makes replacement of bits faster and easier
  • It has a robust four amperes motor ideal for both lightweight and heavy-duty tasks
  • The central handle design is good for a balance when working with the tool
  • It has a lightweight build that facilitates easier handling when working for long periods
  • The clutch design comes in handy in providing efficient control

Negatives:

  • It does not have a secondary handle for extra support

2. DEWALT Corded Drill, 8.0-Amp, 3/8-Inch, VSR, Mid-Handle Grip – Best Overall

Whenever someone purchases a Dewalt drill, getting value for the money is inevitable. The company has put in the effort of innovating high-end tools that demonstrate unparalleled performance and undoubted reliability. This DEWALT drill corded equipment is crafted to effortlessly undertake rigorous drilling tasks, thanks to the industrial eight amperes motor that delivers a great measure of torque.

Also, chuck has been sturdily attached to the drill, and this makes for efficiency and stability in locking bits. This goes a long way in fostering accuracy when working.

DEWALT Corded Drill

One can conveniently change the chuck’s rotating speed to the desired one depending on the current executed task. Also, the handle has been mid-placed for more natural balance when holding the tool.

This design causes an even distribution of the weight, therefore, fostering a comfortable balance when working. With a ball-bearing build, this corded drill will stay in use for an extended period. Considering its awesome performance, I would recommend this tool to all homeowners.

Positives:

  • It is tailored for heavyweight tasks as it’s driven by an eight amperes robust motor
  • The strengthened chuck serves efficiently at retaining bits during the performance
  • The revolution speed can be altered for a wide range of applications
  • The handle has been symmetrically positioned halfway along the drill for enhanced balance when holding
  • It presents a ball-bearing build, which offers unparalleled longevity of the tool

Negatives:

  • It lacks a secondary handle for extra gripping efficiency

3. BLACK DECKER Corded Drill, 5.2-Amp, 3/8-Inch

This tool is arguably the best corded drill I’ve used so far. Its rugged design not only makes it durable but also suitable for robust applications. It has a storage compartment ideal for carrying bits while working. This Black and Decker drill has an adjustable RPM speed making it ideal for a wide range of applications, including tightening and loosening screws.

The chuck is driven by a strong 5.2 amperes motor that delivers great torque necessary for demanding tasks. It has a solidly compact design that makes for a longer service span and easy maintenance. The tool comes with additional drilling accessories that include bits for various applications.

The handle is padded to provide a firmer grip when working, and this translates to enhanced accuracy. This tool does not have a supplementary handle that might make it difficult when working vertically. Other than that, it is a great tool that I would recommend.

Positives:

  • It has a storage compartment for holding bits when working
  • The revolution speed can be adjusted for diverse usage needs
  • It runs on a powerful 5.2 amperes motor for augmented efficiency
  • It is a robust piece of equipment made for extended longevity
  • The package comes with drilling accessories

Negatives:

  • It lacks a supplementary handle for extra support

4. DEWALT Electric Drill, Pistol-Grip, 1/2-Inch, 10-Amp – Best Professional

DEWALT hammer drill corded is designed for extreme drilling works. With a ½ inch chuck, this drill can fit a wide range of bits, making it a handy tool for diverse drilling needs. It is a safe and stable tool thanks to the overload protection mechanism that makes for optimal efficiency. Also, it has an ingeniously designed handle for efficient handling and control when working.

The rubberized handle minimizes sliding, therefore, offering a stable grip. It has an auxiliary handle, which provides extra control and accuracy. Considering that this drill is driven by a ten amperes motor, it’s ideal for rigorous drilling tasks owing to the extra power it provides.

Also, it has a hardened chuck, which is efficient at locking bits. Besides having a compact make, it is light in weight, and this makes it convenient to work for long hours. I would commend it to all homeowners.

Positives:

  • Has an expediently molded handle for secure handling during performance
  • The chuck is hardened for an industrial and extended performance
  • It’s characterized by an overload protection functionality for optimal efficiency
  • It has a secondary handle for fostering easier handling and a snug grip when drilling
  • It’s driven by a strong ten amperes motor for heavyweight performance

Negatives:

  • It is high-end in regards to the retail price

5. Bosch 11255VSR Bulldog Xtreme – 8 Amp Rotary Hammer Power Drill

Bosch has over the years honed their craftiness at manufacturing dependable, sturdy equipment, and this has seen them grow to become giants in the home tools industry. The Bosch 11255VSR is considered the most powerful corded drill, seeing that it is driven by a strong eight inches motor.

With a compact build, this tool has a vibration minimization feature that comes in handy in fostering stability and precision when working. It is easy to change the bit since there’s no need to use a chuck key.

This aids in time efficiency when working on time-sensitive projects. Also, chuck has an auto bit locking capability, and this is perfect for accurate drilling as the bit is firmly held in place.

Whether you intend to drill on the wall or soft wood, this tool is an excellent pick as it has three functionality modes: drilling, hammering, and a combination of the two.

I also like this corded drill’s tough build that makes for enhanced longevity. I would endorse it as a reliable piece of equipment.

Positives:

  • It has an auto bit locking functionality for enhanced safety and stability when working
  • Changing bits is a seamless process as the crutch has been efficiently built for this
  • It has vibration minimization capability for a more comfortable use
  • It has a triple functionality design making it ideal for drilling, hammering, and a simultaneous functioning of the two
  • It is a hard-wearing piece of equipment designed for impeccable resilience

Negatives:

  • It’s a high priced equipment

6. SKIL 6445-04 7.0 Amp 1/2 In. Hammer Drill

The SKIL 6445-04 is possibly the best 1/2 inch corded drill. It features a hard-wearing seven amperes motor that is calibrated to deliver enormous power necessary for rigorous drilling tasks. This SKIL corded drill has a strategically mounted handle that makes for enhanced control and precision, more so when working vertically on surfaces such as ceilings.

It is easier to hold the drill with both hands rather than with one. This equipment has a speed trigger that is resourceful in altering the RPM speed, therefore, making it a versatile equipment for an extensive range of applications.

This SKIL electric drill has a robustly crafted make that translates to extended longevity and easy storage.

Also, considering the ½ inch chuck size, this drill is suitable for drilling large holes as it can carry larger bits compared to other chucks. In case you’ll be drilling through concrete blocks or other tough surfaces, this corded drill is perfect for it, thanks to a hammer drill functionality. Owing to its impeccable reliability, I would recommend this corded drill.

Positives:

  • It has a hard-wearing seven amperes motor tailored for extreme tasks
  • There’s an auxiliary handle, which fosters better control and enhanced precision when working
  • It comes with a speed trigger for altering the RPM for specified work applications
  • It has robust build crafted for efficiency and longevity
  • It is suitable for working with a variety of bit sizes

Negatives:

  • It’s a little costly

7. PORTER-CABLE Corded Drill, Variable Speed, 6-Amp, 3/8-Inch – Porter Cable Drill Review

Porter cable drill tools are among the best-selling corded drilling products on the market. It has a keyless chuck build that makes for easy and fast bit switching. This is crucial when it comes to completing tasks on time. Also, it has a vital part, the lock-on knob, which plays a significant role in offering the user efficient control without overload occurrences.

The belt fastener is another small but crucial feature that allows the user to hang the drill on the belt. This is convenient when climbing onto elevated platforms or when working with a number of other tools alternatingly. Also, it features a strong 6.5 amperes electric motor, which produces a significant amount of power sufficient for high-duty drilling.

The chuck’s speed can also be altered according to the user’s needs with the aim of attaining the appropriate speed suitable for a given task. The only factors that would be considered as limitations are the absence of a secondary handle and the 3/8 inches chuck. I would recommend this tool for purchase because of its excellent performance. Here are the details regarding the merits and downsides:

Positives:

  • With the keyless chuck build, switching bits for diverse uses is more comfortable and efficient
  • The lock-on knob comes handy in giving the operator efficient control during extended working hours
  • The design has a belt fastener for more comfortable carrying when working with other tools or on elevated platforms
  • It is driven by a strong 6.5 amperes motor, which is crafted for high-duty tasks
  • It has adjustable RPM functionality for augmented suitability in varying tasks

Negatives:

  • It lacks a secondary handle for the ease of holding

8. Bosch 1006VSR 3/8-Inch Keyless Chuck Drill

This Bosch corded hammer drill is among my favorites, as it has never disappointed since I purchased it. One of its original parts is a belt clip that conveniently allows the operator to hang the tool on the belt. This becomes useful when working on elevated grounds such as rooftops. Also, this Bosh drill has a safety mechanism that inhibits lock-on occurrences, thanks to the improved design.

The rotation speed of the chuck can also be increased or decreased to match specific job requirements. A faster RPM will be set for drilling sturdier surfaces such as steel, while a slower rotation can be used for drilling boards and other softer materials. Also, this Bosh hammer drill is ideal for hammer drilling concrete walls as it is designed for tough performance. This tool is not heavy, and, therefore, it is suitable for working over long periods without causing muscular fatigue.

The only drawback I can think of is the absence of a secondary handle, which is an essential feature for enhanced usability. Other than that, I like the drill and would commend it to all home makeover enthusiasts.

Positives:

  • The chuck demonstrates an impeccable performance
  • The equipment has a strong belt clip, which is good when multitasking or working on elevated platforms
  • Fortuitous lock-on occurrences have been minimized thanks to the enhanced build
  • The speed can be customized to fit varying works
  • The equipment is driven by a high-duty motor, which delivers a first-rate performance

Negatives:

  • It lacks an auxiliary handle for a firmer and comfy holding
  • Quite heavy

9. GALAX PRO Hammer Drill, 5 Amp Electric Corded Drill

The GALAX PRO Hammer drill is another great tool with a noteworthy performance. It is among the most convenient to use drilling tools around considering the great easy-to-use controls. It has a lock-on knob that enables the operator to make adjustments to the tool’s functionality while offering control at the same time.

Whether you are fixing something quickly or working on a project for hours, this knob makes it easier to set functionality modes without having to adjust it every time. Also, its RPM can be adjusted to accommodate different needs, such as tightening a screw. The secondary handle is another great feature that offers augmented control when holding the tool. With this characteristic, it is easier to make a precise drill regardless of the side or angle.

Also, with the five amperes motor, this drill is fit for executing hard drilling tasks owing to the high torque it delivers. Despite the costly price tag, it is a great product worth the expense. I would recommend it any day.

Positives:

  • The lock-on knob makes for efficient usability, especially during long working hours
  • The RPM can be changed to a custom speed for specific tasks
  • The secondary handle allows for precise working and enhanced control
  • The five amperes motor is efficient in delivering substantial power necessary for high duty tasks
  • It is light in weight for comfortable use during long working periods

Negatives:

  • It is somewhat expensive

10. Meterk 7.0 Amp 1/2 Inch Corded Drill 850W, 3000RPM Dual Switch Between Electric Hammer Drill (Vistreck)

This Meterk (Vistreck) corded drill can be named the best corded drill under $100. This product has a strong secondary handle that offers enhanced support when drilling or performing other tasks. It presents a robust seven amperes electric motor suitable for executing hammering tasks.

One can conveniently switch between the hammering and impact drilling modes depending on the task. The control knobs are easy to access, and this makes the drill generally easy to use. With a maximum RPM of 3000 rotations, the speed of the chuck can be changed to match the given drilling requirements. It is an excellent piece of equipment that I would endorse to all homeowners. Here’s a summary of the superb features and the drawbacks of the tool:

Positives:

  • The sturdy secondary handle is essential for offering augmented support and stability when working
  • It is driven by a robust 7 amperes motor designed for tough tasks
  • It offers multiple functionalities for hammering and impact drilling
  • It demonstrates easy usability owing to the intuitive control knobs use
  • The RPM can be adjusted for specific job requirements

Negatives:

  • It is a little weighty, and this is not good for long work shifts

11. TACKLIFE Hammer Drill, 1/2-Inch Electric Drill – Tacklife Drill

Editor's Review, Hammer Drill, TACKLIFE 7.5Amp 2024, 4.8/5, 76 Likes - Tool Report

This TACKLIFE tool is one of my most preferred corded drills. It has a chuck reversal functionality that comes in handy when tightening and untightening screws. It can be interchangeable and simultaneously used for both drilling and hammering. Upon purchase, the drill comes with a number of specified bits for different work situations.

Also, the spinning secondary handle is a vital feature that enhances usability when it comes to the comfort of holding the equipment. Also, the speed of rotation can be increased or slowed down to cater for varying application requirements. It also has a robust build, which makes for extended longevity. The ½ inch chuck makes for increased efficiency for drilling large holes as the chuck can accommodate significant bits.

It is fascinating how such a high-end tool is retailed at a bargain-basement price range. With its unparalleled performance in mind, I would commend this TACKLIFE corded drill at any time. Let’s check the advantages and disadvantages:

Positives:

  • It can be used interchangeably for both drilling and hammering
  • The package encompasses a dozen distinct bits for diverse applications
  • Has a spinning ancillary handle, which augments usability in regards to offering a perfect grip
  • The chuck’s revolving speed can be adjusted for diverse drilling usage
  • It has a robust and stable chuck for extended service

Negatives:

  • It’s a little heavy, which may cause fatigue when working for extended periods

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

corded drill

Following are some of the most commonly asked questions and their accurate answers:

Who makes the best corded drills?

On the current market, there are a number of top players known for the craftsmanship of impeccable quality corded drills for diverse lines of applications. Among the makers of the best corded drills are Black & Decker, SKIL, DEWALT, PORTER CABLE, METERK, Bosch, TACKLIFE, and GALAX PRO. These brands have been the pacesetters in the drilling tools industry.

Related Post: Best Cordless Circular Saws Reviewed

Are corded drills as good as the cordless?

Generally, corded drills offer greater performance compared to cordless drills, and the choice between the two ultimately comes down to the demand level of the task. Corded drills are designed for resilience, and extra torque, as most have powerful motors with a sturdy build.

Also, most corded drills have a lightweight nature, which makes them convenient for long working hours. Cordless drills have battery compartments that make them relatively more substantial compared to their corded counterparts.

What are corded drills used for?

Corded drills are used in a wide range of applications, as they often have distinct functionalities, which make them suitable for specific tasks. However, their purpose always comes down to one thing, drilling. Hammer drills are ideal for working with steel and concrete surfaces.

Basic corded drills without any feature extensions are designed for making holes on surfaces such as wood, cardboards, and PVC. Corded drills with reversibility features can also be used as screwdrivers. You should ensure that you have analyzed the specific job variants and requirements before choosing a drill to ensure the suitability of the equipment for the task.

Can you use a corded drill as a screwdriver?

corded drill

Yes. However, there are a number of considerations to make before using a corded drill as a screwdriver. Your tool should be reversible, the RPM should be adjustable, and lastly, a screwdriver bit should be installed into the chunk.

The essence of the reversibility functionality is to enable one to loose or tighten a screw depending on the direction of rotation. Regulating the rotation speed when tightening or loosening a screw is essential as it gives you control of the process. Also, it is important to select the right screwdriver bit in regards to the size. The bit’s dimension has to match the screw’s sizes.

Related Post: Best Professional Chainsaws

How to remove chuck from the dewalt corded drill?

If your drill has a removable chuck, then the process entails a series of simple steps. First, you’ll need to open the chuck and locate the mounting screw positioned at the interior foot of the chuck where it’s fixed onto the drill. Untighten the screw using a screwdriver and remove it.

The next step involves clamping the chuck with a wrench and then rotating to untighten it from the drill. This might necessitate hitting the wrench with a metallic tool such as a harmer while the drill is safely secured on a table. Upon hitting or rotating the wrench, the chuck should also turn and untighten free from the head of the drill. Once you’ve removed the chuck, the reverse of the above procedure should be followed when installing another one.

How to convert a cordless drill to a corded one?

When converting a cordless drill to a corded one, there are a number of items you’ll need. These are the cordless drill, a terminated conducting wire, and soldering equipment. The first step involves detaching the battery compartment if it’s detachable. If not, remove the batteries.

The next step involves soldering the terminated conducting cable to the battery compartment terminals on the drill. Once the soldering has been done correctly, the drill is ready for connecting to a power supply.

What is the most common size of the corded drill?

The most common chuck size for corded drills is ½ inches. Unlike most cordless drills that have 3/8-inch chucks, the drills of larger size make room for working with more significant bits. Corded drills are often used in heavy-duty tasks, which mean larger holes. Hence you need a larger chuck size.

 How to choose a corded drill for your task?

Before picking a drill for a specific task, here are the factors you should consider. The first concern is the nature of work to be completed. If you intend to drill through a metallic surface, a powerful drill is paramount.

Again, you will need to consider the design of the drill in regards to functionalities. Some drills have been designed as hammering drills, and these are ideal when working with concrete surfaces. You can check the power rating of each equipment at your disposal to gauge its suitability for the task at hand.

The chuck size is another concern, as this varies depending on the application. If you need to make large holes, then a drill with a large chuck will be suitable for the job.

Related Post: Best Sandblasters for Home & Commercial Use

Which Corded Drill Brand and Tool Do You Prefer?

best corded drill

Whether or not you are a veteran when it comes to using drills, getting the right tool is essential in ensuring that the task will be satisfactorily completed. There are a number of high-end drills that offer excellent efficiency and unparalleled reliability. However, if you’re not in a position to get such, you can go for a cheap corded drill, which will help you get the job done.

Depending on what you want to do, you should look at the features of a corded drill, and these will help you infer its suitability for the job. For example, a lightweight drill with a secondary handle is more appropriate to work with if one is to work for long periods of time. The secondary handle also helps with offering better control for precise craftsmanship when drilling.

If you’re working with a number of other tools on an elevated platform or environment, then a drill that has a belt clip will be convenient when it comes to ease of carrying. Also, get a powerful tool if you intend to work on tough surfaces such as concrete walls and metallic surfaces. Hammer drills are best fitting for such rigorous tasks. Some of the attributes that determine the powerfulness of a corded drill include the RPM, the motor power rating, and the speed regulation functionality.

Also, a drill with a keyless chuck is more preferable than a drill that will need a chuck key to change a bit on the grounds of convenience. This is especially crucial in applications where changing drilling bits is done often. If you intend to work with significant bits for making large holes, be sure to go for a tool with a large chuck size that is ½ inches. In case you have a cordless drill that’s out of batteries, you can convert it to a corded drill and enjoy the benefits that come with having an efficiently running drilling tool.

The reviewed products are some of the best corded drills you’ll find in the market today. With the highlights of the feature specifications, the benefits and the shortcomings of each equipment, you probably already know which one fits your needs best. Among the reviewed corded drills, which one is your favorite tool? Which corded product have you used and what did you like about it? What feature is crucial for you? What brand do you like the most, and why?

Share your experience with me in the comment section below!

Sean Chapman
Sean Chapman

“A good tool stays with you for many years and choosing carefully ensures the job is done right, your work is neat, and the tool is always a pleasure to use”

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